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3. Why digital fabrication in education? Pedagogical theories and socio-emotional learning.

Objective

To create a sturdy stand/organizer using laser-cut dividers/shelves, assembled and glued together to support the weight of multiple binders/objects.

Process

Design Phase:

  • Measured the binders to determine adequate dimensions for the stand.
  • Created the design for individual dividers using Inkscape, ensuring that the slots were correctly spaced to fit standard-sized binders but can also serve as table organizers.
  • Engraved the dividers with the FabLab logo for a personalized touch.

Material Selection and Cutting:

  • In my initial attempt, I used MDF that was too thin (around 3 mm). Although the cuts were easy, the material lacked the strength to support the binders, causing it to break under weight.
  • In my subsequent attempts I switched to a thicker MDF (around 6-8 mm). While this material was stronger and better suited to support higher weight, it required multiple passes on the laser cutter to achieve clean cuts.

Assembly:

  • Carefully glued the cut dividers on using wood glue, making sure to align the pieces precisely against the bottom and back pieces.
  • Allowed the glued parts to dry thoroughly to ensure a strong bond.
  • Used a nailgun to ensure that the glued joints were reinforced.

Main Challenges

  • The initial MDF used was too thin and lacked the necessary strength, leading to instability and breaking.
  • The thicker MDF required multiple passes on the laser cutter, which increased the time and precision needed to get clean cuts without burning the edges.
  • Didn’t take into account the elevated thickness of the bottom piece. Outer divider pieces are flush with the top but the inner divider pieces are slightly above.

sample photo

I created the stand to keep all my binders upright and organized, preventing them from constantly falling over. This stand will allow me to access each binder easily without them tipping over or needing to be propped up against the wall. I also created it so that the students can compartmentalize any objects required for the class lesson.

Reflection

Think on one or two educational activities in which you could integrate laser cutting at some stage of the activity. Explain briefly the activity. Do not forget to clearly indicate the learning outcomes.

Students will design and build a birdhouse using MDF wood, learning about measurement, design, and basic woodworking concepts. They will use a laser cutter to cut out the individual pieces for their birdhouse. To encourage creativity, students may personalize their birdhouses with laser-engraved patterns, shapes, or messages.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Students will learn how to model and transform a 2D design into a physical 3D object using Tinkercad and Inkscape.
  • Students will develop skills in accurate measurement and precision, understanding the importance of scaling and dimensions in design.
  • While working in teams, students will practice communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Students will gain a basic understanding of how birdhouses can support local wildlife, encouraging ecological awareness.

Reflect on your own practice. When you prepare a lesson activity what are the things that you take into consideration? What are the critical aspects? What additional aspects do you need to take into consideration if you utilize digital fabrication processes?

When preparing a lesson activity, I always start by clearly defining the learning outcomes I want the students to achieve. Because I teach cohorts of varying ages, I ensure the activity is aligned with the curriculum and targets specific skills or knowledge areas best suited for kids of that designated age range. I also focus on making the activity as interactive and engaging as possible as activities that involve creativity and hands-on learning tend to resonate more with students. I make sure to check if the required materials and tools are accessible within the classroom or school. I also plan the activity to fit within the available time frame (typically an hour), and so I have to break it down into manageable steps to keep students focused while also dedicating sufficient amount of time to explain the theory or activity.

When integrating digital fabrication processes into lesson activities, I ensure that students have basic skills with design software (primarily Tinkercad and Inkscape) to create or modify files before fabrication. If they lack these skills, I incorporate a mini-lesson at the start of class to teach them the basics but do my best not to spoonfeed them and allow for exploration. Safety is also a top priority when using digital fabrication tools. I make sure to discuss safety protocols and supervise students closely while they use machines like laser cutters or 3D printers. I also consider in advance the safety of materials being used, especially when dealing with fumes from certain filaments and recognizing if there is proper ventilation in the lab.

Reflect on your past educational activities. How have you considered Socio-Emotional learning (or soft-skills) when preparing the activities? How do you integrate these soft-skills in your education? Could you provide some concrete examples? How have changed your perspective on socio-emotional learning / soft-skill / horizontal competences after this lecture.

As I have gained experience, I have recognized the growing importance of socio-emotional learning (SEL) in educational activities. While my primary focus is initially set on meeting academic objectives, I have encouraged self-teaching among groups to help achieve that. For example, if one student has an easier time accumulating and grasping the lesson, I will ask for him to assist others in reaching the same level of understanding. This will validate what they have learned as they gain confidence in their abilities all the while raising their social awareness and being empathetic to why someone else may be struggling. Though I may have had an idea as to the significance of SEL, I didn’t necessarily have a name to define it. This lecture has helped me identify not only what socio-emotional learning is but understand WHY it is imperative to foster it in young students to bring about success and well-being.